The return of the Harborough Carnival of Running saw a large rise in the numbers of runners taking part, as well as a large rise in temperatures. Last year’s inaugural event was a wet affair, but this year warm weather and humid conditions offered a different physical challenge to test the 900 plus runners taking part.
Various local businesses got involved to support the event – Market Harborough Building Society were once again the headline sponsor, post-race massages were provided by The Training Shed and we were happy to supply transportation to the relay race runners.
Once the town centre had been covered, half marathon runners went out to the countryside taking in Welham and Thorpe Langton before ending by the carnival grounds.
The 10k winners were Ludovic Renou and Rosanna Andrews whilst Gareth Wood & Nicki Nealon were first the cross the finish line for the half marathon. The EHL relay race was won by ‘True Bromance’ a group of friends from the town.
Local charities were also a big winner on the day with an estimated £15,000 already collected in sponsorship with a total of £25,000 expected more to come in. The Squires Effect received a cheque for £2,500 from Race Harborough.
Feedback for the event from runners on social media following the event was overwhelmingly positive. Mary Oswald wrote “Brilliant day and fantastically organised. A massive well done is deserved for the organisers and volunteers on the day. It’s not easy organising something as big and complicated like this. I loved the route and the vibe of the day. Judging from the smiley faces, I think other runners enjoyed it too. I will be signing up for next year ASAP!”
The event organisers Race Harborough, led by Brian Corcoran and Amy Kingston were pleased by the large numbers taking part and the positive feedback. “We are delighted to see so many people from the town take part. But this year’s events saw people come from all over the Midlands to compete – really putting Harborough on the map and bringing many new people to the town” comments Amy. Brian adds “A huge thanks to everyone that volunteered including marshals, lead cyclists, pacers, tail runners without whom the event could not have happened.”
